Endless green parks, quiet urban oases, colorful gardens, narrow cobblestone streets lined with beautiful houses and quaint neighborhoods with European charm are only some of the things to see and do in Columbus.
If you are planning a weekend getaway and you are looking for the must-see places around the city keep reading! We have prepared a list of the top 10 Things to See and Do in Columbus, Ohio.
As I have mentioned before, Columbus is one of my favourites places in the US. Not just because I have family there.
I love the green spaces. I love that there are so many hiking spots and nature near Columbus and all within a short drive too.
Don’t even get me started on the food, from cool brunch spots…just thinking about the food makes my mouth water. Let’s talk about the cool and fun places to visit in Columbus.
Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Columbus
Columbus has so many cool and hidden gems that even locals don’t know about. From the lovely Hayden Falls to beautiful and leafy parks.
Whether you are looking for a city break for a solo trip or looking for a chilled out couples break or a family vacation, there is something for everyone in Columbus.
So, grab a good breakfast in Columbus and get exploring to these cool must-see places to visit in the city.
- Columbus Zoo And Aquarium
If you are planning a family trip to Columbus, Ohio, your first stop should be the aquarium and zoo. Known to be one of the best zoos across the United States, it is home to more than 7000 animals representing 800 different species.
The park covers a territory of more than 580 acres and is divided in a number of exhibits and regions of the Earth. The Heart of Africa is one of the most popular among tourists as you can even feed the giraffes. You will quickly realize that the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a fantastic place to spend a fun family day.
- Scioto Mile
Situated at the heart of the city, Scioto Mile is a fantastic park offering visitors the opportunity to walk around, bike along the trails or have a nice family picnic.
Make sure to take the promenade along the Scioto River and enjoy the views of the downtown area of Columbus in the distance.
During the hot summer days, you should certainly cool off by the numerous fountains shooting water as high as 75 feet! The park often hosts various free concerts and events, so make sure to check the program while you are in town!
- Franklin Park Conservatory And Botanical Gardens
With its colorful outdoor gardens, exotic plant species collections and beautiful conservatory area, Franklin Park is a must-see while in Columbus, Ohio.
Spreading on a territory of around 88 acres, the botanical gardens are the perfect location for a quiet nature escape, while still being in the city center.
Despite the fact that spring is known to be the most stunning season to visit when thousands of trees and flowers are blooming in vibrant colors, the park looks unique and different every month.
During the winter, kids can play in the snow around the big display of evergreen trees, whereas fall forms an outstanding carpet of leaves in various shades of red, orange and yellow. The benches around the pond are a great area for a family picnic.
- Park Of Roses
One of the most beautiful places to visit during the summer months is the Park of Roses. Allow yourself to get lost in between the beautiful and colorful gardens spreading on more than 13 acres. The glorious park is home to approximately 350 flower variations and 12,000 roses.
Do not miss the chance to visit one of the largest American public rose gardens and add the park to your itinerary for exploring Columbus. Make sure to pack some snacks and have a nice family picnic while enjoying the nice scent of blooming flowers all around you.
- Columbus Museum of Art
From modern and contemporary art to pieces created by some of the most popular artists in the world, Columbus Museum of Art is one of the top places to visit.
You will surely be impressed by the large collection of displays in the different sections of the gallery.
Compared to other art museums, even the small ones will be entertained with the interactive exhibits, activities and the special Lego play area. A nice added bonus is that admission on Sundays is completely free of charge.
- Center of Science And Industry
If the morning greets you with some heavy rain and you are unsure what would be a fun activity for your kids, head to the Center of Science and Industry.
Covering more than 320,000 square feet the museum was opened back in 1964 and has been attracting visitors ever since.
Home to more than 300 interactive displays divided into themed sections, you can be sure that your children will have a blast while having hand-on experience of science and technologies. The COSI is a fantastic way to spend a fun family afternoon in Columbus, Ohio.
- Stroll Down The German Village
Do you want to feel like you have been transported to the European narrow cobblestone streets? Make sure to visit the German Village!
The area dates back to the 19th Century when a group of German immigrants moved there and started forming a small community that keeps preserving the German culture and traditions even nowadays.
Stroll down the alleys and enjoy the European charm and atmosphere, while getting the classic taste of Germany by munching on some freshly made pretzels or a deliciously flavored grilled sausage.
- Explore The Short North Arts District
The hipster and quirky Short North Arts District is one of the most interesting and unique neighborhoods to explore in Columbus, Ohio.
Known to be heavily influenced by a number of creative artists, the area is home to different galleries, vintage shops and unique cafes and bars.
Spend an amazing afternoon by wandering through the streets of the art neighborhood and enjoy the extraordinary architectural design of older brick buildings decorated with contemporary and colorful wall paintings.
- North Market Farmer’s Market
Known as one of the oldest and biggest farmer’s markets in Ohio, the North Market attracts farmers and businesses offering locally-grown fresh products.
If you are visiting Columbus between June to October, make sure to add the bazaar to your itinerary for exploring the city.
Stroll between the stalls and choose some fresh fruit and vegetables or get a hand-made item as a souvenir of your trip to Columbus. Keep in mind that the market is open only on Saturdays and Sundays, though.
- Easton Town Center
Have you already explored Columbus, Ohio and looking for a relaxing day of treating yourself? Then you should certainly pay a visit to the Easton Town Center.
This commercial district will not only allow you to enjoy an afternoon of shopping spree, but will also impress you with its extraordinary layout and design.
You will feel like you have taken a step back in time while strolling down the alleys lined with buildings from the beginning and middle of the 20th Century. Indulge in some yummy lunch or sip on delicious cocktails before heading to the cinema.
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Which one of these top 10 things to see and do in Columbus, Ohio would you like to try first?
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